In collaboration with Kyanga Cultural Consultancy (KCC) we delivered 4 online workshops on the topic of Trauma-Informed Practice in June. The workshops were highly successful with a high turnout rate and an engaged audience across the board.
KCC ensured that the content of the workshop was appropriate for an online format, as Trauma-Informed Practice can be a confronting and sensitive topic.
Initially, the workshops were going to be delivered back to back with the SEWB and AOD Forums that had been planned, but due to current COVID-19 circumstances were not able to deliver on this expectation.
Trauma affects us all, directly, or indirectly. Many people live with the ongoing effects of past and present overwhelming stress (trauma). Despite the large number of people affected, many of us don’t think of the possibility that someone we meet, speak to or support may have experienced trauma. This makes us less likely to recognise trauma in others. Keeping the possibility of trauma on our radar means keeping the sensitivities and vulnerabilities of people who may be trauma survivors in mind. It means being respectful, understanding and acknowledging the experiences of others.
The Trauma-Informed Practice Workshop provided participants with an overview of what Trauma-Informed Practice is and a safe space to explore what communication tools can benefit this practice. Topics covered considered the core principals of trauma-informed practice, and a strength-based approach for those working with Aboriginal people affected by trauma. The workshop encouraged participants to look at how they are currently working, and how they could improve their trauma-informed practice to strengthen their workplaces response to trauma.
We would like to thank all the ACCHS staff members who attended and the KCC for such informative and engaging sessions. We look forward to working together in the future.
